As the world embraces hydrogen as a clean energy source, a fundamental question arises: How do we move it from point A to point B?
Hydrogen is the smallest molecule in the universe — and one of the hardest to handle. It’s extremely light, leaks easily, and requires energy-intensive methods to store and transport. That’s why the energy world is exploring hydrogen carriers: substances that can store hydrogen chemically or physically, and release it where needed.
Let’s look at three of the main contenders:
Liquid Hydrogen: This is pure hydrogen, supercooled to -253°C. It has high energy density per mass but low density per volume. It also evaporates easily and needs specialized tanks — making it expensive and challenging logistically.
Ammonia (NH₃): Ammonia carries more hydrogen per volume than liquid hydrogen. It’s easier to liquefy, and infrastructure is more developed. But it’s toxic, and cracking ammonia back into hydrogen adds complexity.
Methanol (CH₃OH): Methanol carries less hydrogen per unit volume than ammonia, but it’s much safer, already widely traded, and easier to store and handle. Reforming methanol to hydrogen is relatively efficient and compatible with existing technology — and it doesn’t require special materials or conditions.
Each carrier has its place. But methanol stands out for its real-world usability. It’s not just a future concept — it’s a present-day solution that fits into today’s systems while supporting tomorrow’s goals.